Superprotect [1] was introduced by the Wikimedia Foundation to resolve a
product development disagreement. We have not used it for resolving a
dispute since. Consequently, today we are removing Superprotect from
Wikimedia servers.
Without Superprotect, a symbolic point of tension is resolved. However, we
still have the underlying problem of disagreement and consequent delays at
the product deployment phase. We need to become better software partners,
work together towards better products, and ship better features faster. The
collaboration between the WMF and the communities depends on mutual trust
and constructive criticism. We need to improve Wikimedia mechanisms to
build consensus, include more voices, and resolve disputes.
There is a first draft of an updated Product Development Process [2] that
will guide the work of the WMF Engineering and Product teams.[3] It
stresses the need for community feedback throughout the process, but
particularly in the early phases of development. More feedback earlier on
will allow us to incorporate community-driven improvements and address
potential controversy while plans and software are most flexible.
We welcome the feedback of technical and non-technical contributors. Check
the Q&A for details.[4]
[1]
https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Superprotect
[2]
https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/WMF_Product_Development_Process
[3]
https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Engineering
[4]
https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/WMF_Product_Development_Process/2015-11-05#Q…
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Quim Gil
Engineering Community Manager @ Wikimedia Foundation
http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/User:Qgil